[2026 Updated] Jet Black vs 1B vs 2: How to Choose the Perfect Black Wig Color

Written by: CatherOlivia

Published on November 9, 2024

Updated on January 6, 2026

Time to read 5 min

Choosing the right black wig color can completely transform your look. Yet many people feel confused when they see codes like 1, 1B and 2 on wig or bundle labels. Are Jet Black, Natural Black (1B) and Darkest Brown (2) really that different?

In this guide, we’ll clearly explain the difference between 1 vs 1B vs 2 hair color, show you how each shade looks, and help you choose the best black wig color for your skin tone, natural hair and personal style.

Table of content

What Do 1, 1B and 2 Mean in Hair Color? What is 1 Jet Black Hair Color? What is 1B Hair Color? What is 2 Hair Color? Jet Black vs. Natural Black (Color 1 vs. 1B): Key Differences Natural Black vs. Darkest Brown (Color 1B vs. 2): What Sets Them Apart Choosing Between Jet Black, 1B, and 2: Which Is Best for You? Final World

What Do 1, 1B and 2 Mean in Hair Color?

In the hair and wig industry, colors are often labeled with numbers:

1 = Jet Black (the deepest, most intense black)
1B = Natural Black (soft, realistic black)
2 = Darkest Brown (very dark brown with warm undertones)

These shades look similar at a glance, but they create very different effects once you wear them. Understanding these numbers will help you choose a wig that blends seamlessly with your own hair or gives you the exact dramatic look you want.

What is 1 Jet Black Hair Color?

Jet Black, or Color 1, is the deepest and most intense shade of black. It has a cool tone, often with subtle blue undertones, which gives it a striking, almost dramatic appearance. Jet Black hair is highly pigmented, rich and glossy, creating a bold and eye-catching effect.

Unlike most natural black hair, Jet Black is usually achieved through dyeing, as this level of depth is rarely found naturally. It’s ideal for those who want a high-impact, polished look that stands out on camera, on stage or in photos.

Best for:

People who love a bold, high-contrast style
Photo shoots, events and glam looks
Naturally darker hair who don’t mind a dyed, uniform finish

What is 1B Hair Color?

1B hair color, often called Natural Black, is the second darkest black shade. The “B” stands for black, and “1B” represents the first natural black shade that closely resembles untreated human hair.

Unlike Jet Black, 1B is a softer, more realistic black with slight variations and depth, which gives it a very natural appearance. It’s one of the most popular wig and bundle colors because it blends seamlessly with the natural hair color of most people with dark hair.

Best for:

Anyone who wants a natural-looking black shade
Everyday wear and professional settings
Blending with leave-out or natural edges

What is 2 Hair Color?

Color 2 is a Darkest Brown shade, distinct from true black colors. From a distance, it may appear almost black, but up close you can see warm brown undertones.

Color 2 offers a soft, natural appearance that lacks the intensity of black shades. It’s a great match for people whose hair naturally falls between black and brown, or for those who want a dark color that still looks warm and approachable.

Best for:

People with naturally dark brown hair
Those who feel black shades are too harsh
A softer, everyday dark shade with warmth and dimension

Jet Black vs. Natural Black (Color 1 vs. 1B): Key Differences

Jet Black (Color 1) and Natural Black (1B) may look similar at first glance, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Below are the key differences to help you decide which one suits your style better:

Undertone:
- Jet Black has cool, blue undertones, making it appear more dramatic.
- Natural Black (1B) has warm, brown undertones, offering a more natural effect.
Shade:
- Jet Black is the deepest, darkest shade of black available.
- Natural Black (1B) is softer, appearing closer to untreated natural hair.
Appearance:
- Jet Black is typically dyed to achieve a consistent, uniform color.
- Natural Black (1B) includes slight variations, often showing subtle gray or brown tones.
Flattering Factor:
- Jet Black may not suit all skin tones, particularly lighter complexions.
- Natural Black (1B) is more universally flattering, blending well with various skin tones.

Choose Jet Black (1) if: you want a dramatic, fashion-forward, ultra-sleek style.
Choose 1B if: you want your wig to look like it could be your real hair.

Natural Black vs. Darkest Brown (Color 1B vs. 2): What Sets Them Apart

Natural Black (1B) and Darkest Brown (Color 2) are distinct shades often mistaken for each other due to their similarities. Here’s what sets these two shades apart:

Shade:
- Natural Black (1B) is a shade of black, while Color 2 is a deep dark brown.
Undertones:
- 1B has warm, natural black undertones.
- Color 2 has more noticeable warm brown undertones, giving a softer effect.
Natural Variations:
- Natural Black (1B) often includes gray or lighter strands, making it appear more authentic.
- Darkest Brown (Color 2) is usually dyed to achieve a uniform, consistent shade.
Darkness Level:
- 1B is darker than the subtle warmth of Color 2, making it ideal for those looking for a deeper yet natural look.

Choosing Between Jet Black, 1B, and 2: Which Is Best for You?

Selecting the right hair color for your wig is crucial for achieving the perfect look. Jet Black (Color 1), Natural Black (1B), and Darkest Brown (Color 2) each offer a unique style, and the choice ultimately depends on your personal preference, skin tone, and the look you want to achieve. Below, we break down how to determine which shade is the best match for you:

Jet Black (Color 1): Ideal for those who want a bold, dramatic look. It’s the deepest black but can be too intense for lighter skin tones.
Natural Black (1B): Best for a natural, subtle black. It blends well with most skin tones and appears more natural than Jet Black.
Darkest Brown (Color 2): This shade is perfect for those seeking a dark but softer shade. It has warm undertones and a less intense appearance than black, providing a natural look.

Feature	Jet Black (Color 1)	Natural Black (1B)	Darkest Brown (Color 2)
Shade	Deepest black	Natural black	Deep dark brown
Undertone	Cool, blue	Warm, brown	Warm
Appearance	Uniform, dramatic	Natural with variations	Subtle, dyed consistency
Universally Flattering	Not ideal for pale skin	Suitable for most skin tones	Soft and natural
Processing	Dyed	Typically unprocessed	Usually dyed
Darkness Level	Darkest	Mid-level	Lightest of the three

Final World

Choosing the right black wig color — whether Jet Black (1), Natural Black (1B) or Darkest Brown (2) — can make a huge difference to your overall look. Each shade offers something different, from bold and dramatic to soft and natural.

By understanding the difference between 1 vs 1B vs 2 hair color and considering your skin tone, natural hair and personal style, you can confidently pick a wig shade that looks flattering, realistic and truly “you”.